The school district in Barbara's home town spent only limited funds on education. As a result, the curriculum was lacking and would not prepare anyone for a professional career. In her senior year in high school, the librarian, Miss Truman Richey, recruited her to help organize the library. She suspects now that Miss Richey saw potential in Barbara and wanted to introduce her to the world of literature. Barbara read all the books she could get hold of. It served to open her eyes up to the world beyond her small town in Kentucky. She learned about controversial issues like racism and evolution.

Essay 6: Life Without Go-Go Boots

What worked against any hopes of popularity or dates in school was Barbara's wardrobe, which consisted of hand-me-downs and unstylish black lace-up oxfords. One boy would announce Barbara as she entered...